Skills such as time management and problem-solving are vital tools for young people in today’s fast-paced and competitive world, but few schools in India teach them.
They are doubly important for children whose parents are illiterate and who are growing up in a slum, which is why Calcutta Rescue has begun teaching these life skills, plus others such as critical thinking, collaboration, and leadership.
Starting last year, CR began working with Azim Premji Philanthropic Initiatives (APPI) to provide
additional academic education, health awareness, and vocational training for female students to help them develop into independent and strong women.
Ananya, the head of education at CR, said, “Our students come from backgrounds where the idea of critical thinking and having their own agency might sound unfamiliar. However, these skills are crucial for success in life. Last year, we chose 32 girls aged between 12 to 18 for the lessons. This year, we have expanded the program to include 126 girls and 126 boys of the same age and CR’s counselling team.
Students are thoroughly enjoying the classes, and participating in stimulating discussions. Suhana who studies in class 6, said “I absolutely love the sessions. My favourite part was learning about my rights and how to make decisions for myself. Before, I used to depend on my parents and siblings to make every single decision for me, regardless of how small it was. But now, I know how to think critically and make some decisions for myself. And I learnt all of this through Calcutta Rescue’s life skill sessions.”
Through these life skill lessons, Calcutta Rescue aims to provide its students with the tools they
need to succeed in life and become self-sufficient individuals who can make a positive impact on their families and communities.
Suchandra, CR’s mental health counsellor and social worker, said “Life skills are not just what one knows, but what one does with what one knows.”
